WO1998009842A1 - Dual screen display device - Google Patents

Dual screen display device Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO1998009842A1
WO1998009842A1 PCT/US1997/015059 US9715059W WO9809842A1 WO 1998009842 A1 WO1998009842 A1 WO 1998009842A1 US 9715059 W US9715059 W US 9715059W WO 9809842 A1 WO9809842 A1 WO 9809842A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
display screen
display
frame
supported
vehicle
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1997/015059
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO1998009842B1 (en
Inventor
Hollister A. Hartman
Original Assignee
Ut Automotive Dearborn, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ut Automotive Dearborn, Inc. filed Critical Ut Automotive Dearborn, Inc.
Priority to EP97939586A priority Critical patent/EP0923463A1/en
Priority to JP10512728A priority patent/JP2001502437A/en
Publication of WO1998009842A1 publication Critical patent/WO1998009842A1/en
Publication of WO1998009842B1 publication Critical patent/WO1998009842B1/en

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
    • B60R11/02—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for for radio sets, television sets, telephones, or the like; Arrangement of controls thereof
    • B60R11/0229—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for for radio sets, television sets, telephones, or the like; Arrangement of controls thereof for displays, e.g. cathodic tubes
    • B60R11/0235—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for for radio sets, television sets, telephones, or the like; Arrangement of controls thereof for displays, e.g. cathodic tubes of flat type, e.g. LCD
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
    • B60K35/00—Arrangement of adaptations of instruments
    • B60K35/22—
    • B60K35/60—
    • B60K35/654—
    • B60K35/656—
    • B60K2360/774—
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
    • B60R2011/0001—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by position
    • B60R2011/0003—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by position inside the vehicle
    • B60R2011/0005—Dashboard
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
    • B60R2011/0001—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by position
    • B60R2011/0003—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by position inside the vehicle
    • B60R2011/0035—Sun visors
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
    • B60R2011/0042—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by mounting means
    • B60R2011/008—Adjustable or movable supports
    • B60R2011/0082—Adjustable or movable supports collapsible, e.g. for storing after use
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
    • B60R2011/0042—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by mounting means
    • B60R2011/008—Adjustable or movable supports
    • B60R2011/0084—Adjustable or movable supports with adjustment by linear movement in their operational position
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
    • B60R2011/0042—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by mounting means
    • B60R2011/008—Adjustable or movable supports
    • B60R2011/0085—Adjustable or movable supports with adjustment by rotation in their operational position
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
    • B60R2011/0094—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by means for covering after user, e.g. boxes, shutters or the like
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
    • B60R11/02—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for for radio sets, television sets, telephones, or the like; Arrangement of controls thereof
    • B60R2011/0282—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for for radio sets, television sets, telephones, or the like; Arrangement of controls thereof for the use of several passengers, e.g. simultaneously

Definitions

  • This invention relates to a system for displaying electronically generated images on more than one display screen within a vehicle.
  • the introduction of electronic displays within vehicles created the possibility of increased versatility in supplying information to a driver, for example.
  • Presently proposed display systems are not without limitations. For example, there is a limited amount of space available within the interior of a vehicle for placement of a display screen. Similarly, the size of a display screen is necessarily limited. Therefore, there is a need for a strategic placement of a display system within the vehicle.
  • a display screen can be distracting to the driver of the vehicle because of its placement relative to the driver's normal seating position. It is important to minimize the amount of distraction a driver experiences from concentrating on the task of driving the vehicle. Additionally, some images displayed on a display screen may not be appropriate for a driver under most conditions. In some localities, the type of information that can be displayed on a display screen is limited by law. The same limitations do not apply to passengers within a vehicle, however.
  • This invention addresses the needs and shortcomings of currently proposed systems.
  • This invention provides a unique dual-screen display system that enables a driver to easily view certain images while a passenger views different images, independent of the driver.
  • this invention is a system for displaying visual images within a vehicle.
  • the system includes a first frame supported in the vehicle such that the first frame is movable between a plurality of positions.
  • a first display screen is supported on the first frame.
  • a second frame is supported in the vehicle such that it is movable between a plurality of positions.
  • a second display screen is supported on the second frame.
  • a controller is coupled to the first and second display screens and controls a displayed image on each screen such that a display on the first display screen is independent of a displayed image on the second display screen.
  • the first and second frames are supported on an instrument panel within the vehicle passenger compartment.
  • the two frames are hingedly connected together at one edge so that they are movable relative to each other.
  • the first and second display screens can, therefore, be oriented so that they are angled toward a driver and passenger, respectively.
  • the first and second frames preferably are moved between a storage position, where the first and second display screens are generally co-planar and a plurality of use positions where the screens are angled relative to each other.
  • the system preferably includes a movable cover that covers over the display screens when they are in the storage position.
  • a sensor determines when the cover is moved over the display screens and communicates that information to the controller.
  • the controller responsively puts the display screens into a screen-saver mode and no image is displayed on the screens when they are in such an arrangement.
  • Figure 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of a display system designed according to this invention.
  • Figure 2 is a diagrammatic illustration of the embodiment of Figure 1 showing display screens in a use position.
  • Figure 3 is a diagrammatic illustration of the embodiment of Figure 1 showing display screens in a storage position.
  • Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a system designed according to this invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic illustration of an alternative embodiment of this invention.
  • Figure 1 diagrammatically illustrates a visual display system 20 within a vehicle interior.
  • the display system 20 is supported on an instrument panel 22 in the general vicinity of a steering wheel 24.
  • the display system 20 includes a first frame 26 and a second frame 28.
  • a first display screen 30 is supported on the first frame 26.
  • a plurality of control switches 32 are supported on the first frame 26. The control switches 32 are useful for adjusting or manipulating the display on the first display screen 30.
  • a second display screen 34 is supported on a second frame 28.
  • a plurality of control switches 36 are supported on the second frame 28 for adjusting and manipulating the display on the display screen 34.
  • first frame 26 and the second frame 28 are positioned so that the first screen 30 and the second screen 34 are generally co-planar.
  • the first frame 26 and the second frame 28 preferably are movable relative to each other and the instrument panel 22 so that the first display screen 30 and the second display screen 34 are movable between a plurality of viewing positions.
  • Figure 2 illustrates a preferred orientation of the first frame 26 and the second frame 28 where the first display screen 30 is viewable by the driver of the vehicle and the second display screen 34 is viewable by a passenger.
  • An edge 38 on the first frame 26 preferably is hingedly connected to an edge 39 on the second frame 28. Accordingly, the first frame 26 and the second frame 28 pivot relative to each other about the hinged connection 40.
  • Pivotal and slidable connections 42 preferably are provided at opposite ends of the first and second frames to facilitate movement of the first and second frames between the generally co-planar position illustrated in Figure 1 and the outwardly protruding angled position illustrated in Figure 2.
  • the specific hardware and configuration of the first frame 26 and second frame 28, the hinged connection 40 and the pivotal and slidable connections 42 can be developed by those skilled in the art and, therefore, need not be described in further detail in this specification.
  • a first shelf portion 44 includes a control knob 46 and a pair of control buttons 48.
  • the control knob 46 and control buttons 48 are manipulable by a user (in this case the driver of the vehicle) to make adjustments and selections for altering the display on the display screen 30.
  • a second shelf portion 50 is provided with a control knob 52 and control buttons 54 for adjusting the display on the second display screen 34.
  • the control knobs 46 and 52 preferably are multiple purpose knobs that can be pressed and rotated while the control buttons 48 and 54 preferably are two-position, pressable switches.
  • the first shelf portion 44 and the second shelf portion 50 preferably are supported at an angled position relative to the first and second frames, respectively.
  • the shelf portions preferably are also movable between a use position (as illustrated in Figure 2, for example) and a storage position where the shelf portions are tucked away into the instrument panel 22. Any physical arrangement of the shelf portions relative to the frames that allow for the shelf portions to be moved between a storage position and a use position could be incorporated within the scope of this invention.
  • Figure 3 illustrates the first frame 26 and the second frame 28 in a generally co-planar alignment, which can be referred to as a storage position.
  • a movable cover 60 preferably is provided for protecting the display screens
  • the cover 60 preferably slides between a covering position where the cover 60 generally extends over the display screens and a storage position where the cover is tucked away inside the instrument panel 22.
  • a first control module 62 is coupled to the first display screen 34 while a second control module 64 is coupled to the second display screen 34.
  • the control module 62 and 64 are coupled with a video controller 66.
  • the video controller is any computer or micro-processor that is commercially available and usable for controlling images on a display screen, for example.
  • the divisions of the controller 66 and the first and second control modules 62 and 64 are for schematic illustration purposes only. The functions of each that are described in this specification could be incorporated into a single microprocessor or computer as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.
  • the video controller 66 controls the images to be displayed on the two display screens.
  • the first control module 62 is an interface between the controller 66 and the first display screen 30 so that an image on the first display screen can be controlled through the controller 66 independently of an image on the second display screen 34.
  • the control module 62 also facilitates the ability of the controller 66 to adjust the image on the display screen 30 in response to manipulation of the control switches 32, the control knob 46 or the control buttons 48.
  • the controller 66 preferably is also coupled to a plurality of vehicle sub-systems.
  • Example sub-systems include the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system 70, a radio 72 and cruise control 74.
  • the controller 66 not only controls images on the display screens 30 and 34 but also controls the operation of the vehicle sub-systems to which it is connected.
  • the driver is able to utilize one of the control switches 32 to have the radio sub-system displayed on the first display screen 30.
  • the driver can then make changes to the radio operation by manipulating the control knob 46 and the control buttons 48, for example.
  • the controller 66 then responsively changes the operation of the radio to make it consistent with a display on the display screen 30.
  • the passenger preferably is provided similar privileges. Because the images on the two display screens are independent, however, in the preferred embodiment certain functions available to the driver are not available to the passenger and vice versa.
  • a position sensor 61 detects a position of the cover 60.
  • the position sensor 61 communicates with the controller 66.
  • the controller 66 determines that the cover 60 is covering over the display screens and responsively institutes a screen-saver mode so that the display screens do not display any image.
  • Figure 5 illustrates an alternative embodiment of this invention.
  • Figure 5 illustrates the first display screen 30 supported on a visor 80 that is mounted within the vehicle on the driver's side of the vehicle by a conventional mount 82.
  • the second display screen 34 preferably is mounted on a visor on the passenger's side of the vehicle in like manner.
  • the visor 80 includes a cover 84 that is movable between a storage position and a position where it covers over the display screen 30.
  • a position sensor 86 detects when the cover 84 is in a position to cover over the display screen 30 and communicates that information with the controller 66. In that instance, the controller 66 places the display screen 30 into a screen-saver mode to preserve the display screen 30 and to conserve energy within the system.
  • the visor 80 is movable through a plurality of positions.
  • the control module 62 communicates with a visor position sensor 88, which indicates the position of the visor 80 relative to the roof of the vehicle.
  • the control module 62 preferably is programmed to adjust an image on the display screen 30 depending on the position of the visor 80. For example, when the visor is in a generally vertical position, (i.e. , generally perpendicular to the roof of the vehicle) the image on the display screen is generated in a first mode. When the visor 80 is tilted toward or away from the driver, however, an adjustment must be made for clear viewing of an image on the screen 30.
  • the control module 62 preferably is programmed to make adjustments to the image so that it can be easily seen by the driver of the vehicle whenever the visor 80 is positioned within an acceptable range of angular orientations relative to the roof of the vehicle.
  • One skilled in the art can develop specific code to program the control module 62 or the controller 66 to accomplish the just-described results.

Abstract

A system (20) for displaying electronically generated images within a vehicle includes two display screens (30, 34). One display screen (30) is dedicated to displaying images for the driver of the vehicle while the second display screen (34) is dedicated to generating images for a passenger of the vehicle. The images on the two display screens (30, 34) are generated independently of each other. The display screens (30, 34) preferably are mounted on frames (26, 28) that are movable relative to each other and the interior of the vehicle so that one screen (30) is viewable to the driver and the other (34) faces a passenger.

Description

DUAL SCREEN DISPLAY DEVICE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a system for displaying electronically generated images on more than one display screen within a vehicle. The introduction of electronic displays within vehicles created the possibility of increased versatility in supplying information to a driver, for example. Presently proposed display systems, however, are not without limitations. For example, there is a limited amount of space available within the interior of a vehicle for placement of a display screen. Similarly, the size of a display screen is necessarily limited. Therefore, there is a need for a strategic placement of a display system within the vehicle.
Currently proposed systems have other shortcomings and drawbacks. For example, the placement of a display screen can be distracting to the driver of the vehicle because of its placement relative to the driver's normal seating position. It is important to minimize the amount of distraction a driver experiences from concentrating on the task of driving the vehicle. Additionally, some images displayed on a display screen may not be appropriate for a driver under most conditions. In some localities, the type of information that can be displayed on a display screen is limited by law. The same limitations do not apply to passengers within a vehicle, however.
Therefore, it would be useful to provide a system that enables a driver to view certain information while a passenger can view different images.
This invention addresses the needs and shortcomings of currently proposed systems. This invention provides a unique dual-screen display system that enables a driver to easily view certain images while a passenger views different images, independent of the driver. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In general terms, this invention is a system for displaying visual images within a vehicle. The system includes a first frame supported in the vehicle such that the first frame is movable between a plurality of positions. A first display screen is supported on the first frame. A second frame is supported in the vehicle such that it is movable between a plurality of positions. A second display screen is supported on the second frame. A controller is coupled to the first and second display screens and controls a displayed image on each screen such that a display on the first display screen is independent of a displayed image on the second display screen.
In the preferred embodiment, the first and second frames are supported on an instrument panel within the vehicle passenger compartment. The two frames are hingedly connected together at one edge so that they are movable relative to each other. The first and second display screens can, therefore, be oriented so that they are angled toward a driver and passenger, respectively.
The first and second frames preferably are moved between a storage position, where the first and second display screens are generally co-planar and a plurality of use positions where the screens are angled relative to each other. The system preferably includes a movable cover that covers over the display screens when they are in the storage position. A sensor determines when the cover is moved over the display screens and communicates that information to the controller. The controller responsively puts the display screens into a screen-saver mode and no image is displayed on the screens when they are in such an arrangement.
The various features and advantages of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the presently preferred embodiment. The drawings that accompany the detailed description can be described as follows. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of a display system designed according to this invention. Figure 2 is a diagrammatic illustration of the embodiment of Figure 1 showing display screens in a use position.
Figure 3 is a diagrammatic illustration of the embodiment of Figure 1 showing display screens in a storage position.
Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of a system designed according to this invention.
Figure 5 is a diagrammatic illustration of an alternative embodiment of this invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Figure 1 diagrammatically illustrates a visual display system 20 within a vehicle interior. In the illustrated embodiment, the display system 20 is supported on an instrument panel 22 in the general vicinity of a steering wheel 24. The display system 20 includes a first frame 26 and a second frame 28. A first display screen 30 is supported on the first frame 26. A plurality of control switches 32 are supported on the first frame 26. The control switches 32 are useful for adjusting or manipulating the display on the first display screen 30.
Similarly, a second display screen 34 is supported on a second frame 28. A plurality of control switches 36 are supported on the second frame 28 for adjusting and manipulating the display on the display screen 34.
In Figure 1 , the first frame 26 and the second frame 28 are positioned so that the first screen 30 and the second screen 34 are generally co-planar. The first frame 26 and the second frame 28 preferably are movable relative to each other and the instrument panel 22 so that the first display screen 30 and the second display screen 34 are movable between a plurality of viewing positions.
Figure 2 illustrates a preferred orientation of the first frame 26 and the second frame 28 where the first display screen 30 is viewable by the driver of the vehicle and the second display screen 34 is viewable by a passenger. An edge 38 on the first frame 26 preferably is hingedly connected to an edge 39 on the second frame 28. Accordingly, the first frame 26 and the second frame 28 pivot relative to each other about the hinged connection 40. Pivotal and slidable connections 42 preferably are provided at opposite ends of the first and second frames to facilitate movement of the first and second frames between the generally co-planar position illustrated in Figure 1 and the outwardly protruding angled position illustrated in Figure 2. The specific hardware and configuration of the first frame 26 and second frame 28, the hinged connection 40 and the pivotal and slidable connections 42 can be developed by those skilled in the art and, therefore, need not be described in further detail in this specification.
A first shelf portion 44 includes a control knob 46 and a pair of control buttons 48. The control knob 46 and control buttons 48 are manipulable by a user (in this case the driver of the vehicle) to make adjustments and selections for altering the display on the display screen 30. Similarly, a second shelf portion 50 is provided with a control knob 52 and control buttons 54 for adjusting the display on the second display screen 34. The control knobs 46 and 52 preferably are multiple purpose knobs that can be pressed and rotated while the control buttons 48 and 54 preferably are two-position, pressable switches.
The first shelf portion 44 and the second shelf portion 50 preferably are supported at an angled position relative to the first and second frames, respectively. The shelf portions preferably are also movable between a use position (as illustrated in Figure 2, for example) and a storage position where the shelf portions are tucked away into the instrument panel 22. Any physical arrangement of the shelf portions relative to the frames that allow for the shelf portions to be moved between a storage position and a use position could be incorporated within the scope of this invention.
Figure 3 illustrates the first frame 26 and the second frame 28 in a generally co-planar alignment, which can be referred to as a storage position. A movable cover 60 preferably is provided for protecting the display screens
30 and 34 when they are not in use. The cover 60 preferably slides between a covering position where the cover 60 generally extends over the display screens and a storage position where the cover is tucked away inside the instrument panel 22. Referring now to Figure 4, further components of the display system
20 are schematically illustrated. A first control module 62 is coupled to the first display screen 34 while a second control module 64 is coupled to the second display screen 34. The control module 62 and 64 are coupled with a video controller 66. The video controller is any computer or micro-processor that is commercially available and usable for controlling images on a display screen, for example. The divisions of the controller 66 and the first and second control modules 62 and 64 are for schematic illustration purposes only. The functions of each that are described in this specification could be incorporated into a single microprocessor or computer as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.
The video controller 66 controls the images to be displayed on the two display screens. The first control module 62 is an interface between the controller 66 and the first display screen 30 so that an image on the first display screen can be controlled through the controller 66 independently of an image on the second display screen 34. The control module 62 also facilitates the ability of the controller 66 to adjust the image on the display screen 30 in response to manipulation of the control switches 32, the control knob 46 or the control buttons 48. The same is true of the second control module 64, with respect to the second display screen 34. The controller 66 preferably is also coupled to a plurality of vehicle sub-systems. Example sub-systems include the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system 70, a radio 72 and cruise control 74. In the preferred embodiment, the controller 66 not only controls images on the display screens 30 and 34 but also controls the operation of the vehicle sub-systems to which it is connected. In the preferred embodiment, the driver is able to utilize one of the control switches 32 to have the radio sub-system displayed on the first display screen 30. The driver can then make changes to the radio operation by manipulating the control knob 46 and the control buttons 48, for example. The controller 66 then responsively changes the operation of the radio to make it consistent with a display on the display screen 30. The passenger preferably is provided similar privileges. Because the images on the two display screens are independent, however, in the preferred embodiment certain functions available to the driver are not available to the passenger and vice versa.
Referring back to Figure 3, a position sensor 61 detects a position of the cover 60. When the cover 60 is in the position to cover over the display screens in the storage position, the position sensor 61 communicates with the controller 66. The controller 66 determines that the cover 60 is covering over the display screens and responsively institutes a screen-saver mode so that the display screens do not display any image.
Figure 5 illustrates an alternative embodiment of this invention. Figure 5 illustrates the first display screen 30 supported on a visor 80 that is mounted within the vehicle on the driver's side of the vehicle by a conventional mount 82. The second display screen 34 preferably is mounted on a visor on the passenger's side of the vehicle in like manner. The visor 80 includes a cover 84 that is movable between a storage position and a position where it covers over the display screen 30. A position sensor 86 detects when the cover 84 is in a position to cover over the display screen 30 and communicates that information with the controller 66. In that instance, the controller 66 places the display screen 30 into a screen-saver mode to preserve the display screen 30 and to conserve energy within the system. The visor 80 is movable through a plurality of positions. In the preferred embodiment, the control module 62 communicates with a visor position sensor 88, which indicates the position of the visor 80 relative to the roof of the vehicle. The control module 62 preferably is programmed to adjust an image on the display screen 30 depending on the position of the visor 80. For example, when the visor is in a generally vertical position, (i.e. , generally perpendicular to the roof of the vehicle) the image on the display screen is generated in a first mode. When the visor 80 is tilted toward or away from the driver, however, an adjustment must be made for clear viewing of an image on the screen 30. The control module 62 preferably is programmed to make adjustments to the image so that it can be easily seen by the driver of the vehicle whenever the visor 80 is positioned within an acceptable range of angular orientations relative to the roof of the vehicle. One skilled in the art can develop specific code to program the control module 62 or the controller 66 to accomplish the just-described results.
The foregoing description is exemplary rather than limiting in nature. Variations and modifications to the disclosed embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art that do not necessarily depart from the purview and spirit of this invention. Accordingly, the legal scope of this invention can only be determined by studying the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:
1. A device for displaying an electronically generated image, comprising: a frame including two panel support surfaces; a first display screen supported on one of said panel support surfaces; a second display screen supported on the other of said panel support surfaces; a first control switch supported near said first display screen that is manipulable to control a display on said first display screen; a second control switch supported near said second display screen that is manipulable to control a display on said second display screen; and wherein said panel support surfaces are moveable relative to each other between a first position where said first and second display screens are generally co-planar and a second position where said first and second display screens are angled relative to each other.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein said two panel support surfaces each include a front face and first and second ends at opposite sides of said front faces, said display screens being supported on said panel support surfaces such that said screens are generally co-planar with said front faces, respectively, said first ends of said support surfaces being adjacent each other and hingedly connected such that said support surfaces are moveable between said first and second positions.
3. The device of claim 2, wherein said frame is supported on an instrument panel within a vehicle and wherein said second ends of said support surfaces are pivotally and slidably supported on said instrument panel such that said second ends pivot and slide relative to said instrument panel when said panel support surfaces are moved between said first and second positions.
4. The device of claim 3, further comprising a cover that is supported on said instrument panel and moveable between a first cover position where said cover covers over said frame and display screens when said panel support surfaces are in said first position and a second cover position where said display screens are not covered by said cover.
5. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a first shelf portion that is supported to extend generally away from said first display screen and a second shelf portion that is supported to extend generally away from said second display screen, and wherein each said shelf portion includes at least one control knob that is manipulable to control a displayed image on a respective display screen.
6. The device of claim 5, wherein said first and second shelf portions are moveable relative to said panel support surfaces between a use position where said control knob is accessible to a user for controlling a displayed image and a storage position.
7. A system for displaying visual images within a vehicle, comprising: a first frame supported in the vehicle such that said first frame is moveable between a plurality of positions; a first display screen supported on said first frame; a second frame supported in the vehicle such that said second frame is moveable between a plurality of positions; a second display screen supported on said second frame; and a controller that is coupled to said first and second display screens and controls a displayed image on each screen such that a displayed image on said first display screen is independent of a displayed image on said second display screen.
8. The system of claim 7, wherein said first frame is supported on a first visor within the vehicle and wherein said second frame is supported on a second visor within the vehicle, said first and second visors being moveable between a plurality of positions.
9. The system of claim 8, further comprising a first position sensor that senses a position of said first visor and a second position sensor that senses a position of said second visor, said position sensors communicating with said controller such that said controller adjusts a display on said first display screen responsive to a position of said first visor and wherein said controller adjusts a display on said second display screen responsive to a position of said second visor.
10. The system of claim 7, wherein said first frame includes an edge, said second frame includes and edge that is adjacent said first frame edge and wherein said edges are hingedly connected such that said first and second frames are hingedly moveable relative to each other.
11. The system of claim 7, further comprising a first plurality of selection switches supported on said first frame and a second plurality of selection switches supported on said second frame, said selection switches being manipulable to select an image to be displayed on said display screens, respectively.
12. The system of claim 11, wherein said controller is coupled to a plurality of subsystems within the vehicle and wherein said controller controls said display screens to display one of said subsystems responsive to one of said selection switches being manipulated by a user of said system. lS. The system of claim 12, further comprising a first control knob for adjusting a display on said first display screen and a second control knob for adjusting a display on said second display screen, and wherein said controller alters an operation condition of a displayed vehicle subsystem responsive to said control knobs being manipulated.
14. The system of claim 7, further comprising a first shelf portion supported near said first frame and including a first control knob that is manipulable to adjust an image on said first display screen and a second shelf portion supported near said second frame and including a second control knob that is manipulable to adjust an image on said second display screen, said shelf portions being moveable between a use position where said control knobs are accessible to a user and a storage position.
15. The system of claim 7, further comprising a cover that is moveable between a covering position where said cover is generally over said display screens and a storage position and wherein said controller determines a position of said cover and automatically controls said display screens such that said display screens do not display an image when said cover is in said covering position.
PCT/US1997/015059 1996-09-03 1997-08-27 Dual screen display device WO1998009842A1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP97939586A EP0923463A1 (en) 1996-09-03 1997-08-27 Dual screen display device
JP10512728A JP2001502437A (en) 1996-09-03 1997-08-27 Dual screen display device

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US08/707,154 1996-09-03
US08/707,154 US6067078A (en) 1996-09-03 1996-09-03 Dual screen display device

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1998009842A1 true WO1998009842A1 (en) 1998-03-12
WO1998009842B1 WO1998009842B1 (en) 1998-04-30

Family

ID=24840560

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US1997/015059 WO1998009842A1 (en) 1996-09-03 1997-08-27 Dual screen display device

Country Status (4)

Country Link
US (1) US6067078A (en)
EP (1) EP0923463A1 (en)
JP (1) JP2001502437A (en)
WO (1) WO1998009842A1 (en)

Cited By (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0999088A1 (en) * 1998-11-02 2000-05-10 Mannesmann VDO Aktiengesellschaft Display device for motor vehicle
FR2788244A1 (en) * 1999-01-12 2000-07-13 Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa SYSTEM FOR FIXING A MULTIFUNCTIONAL DISPLAY, PARTICULARLY AID FOR NAVIGATION, IN A MOTOR VEHICLE
EP1219498A1 (en) * 2000-07-28 2002-07-03 Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha Image reproducing device
DE10214789A1 (en) * 2002-04-04 2003-10-16 Volkswagen Ag Restriction of the driver's view on display devices
WO2004016460A1 (en) 2002-08-19 2004-02-26 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. A display system for displaying images within a vehicle
WO2005031444A2 (en) * 2003-09-27 2005-04-07 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Multi-view display
DE19958791B4 (en) * 1999-04-09 2007-03-22 Mitsubishi Denki K.K. Navigation system with several display devices
FR3051153A1 (en) * 2016-05-10 2017-11-17 Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa VISUALIZATION OF ANTI-DISTRACTION IMAGES IN A VEHICLE.
WO2018104067A1 (en) * 2016-12-08 2018-06-14 Audi Ag Display device for a motor vehicle
CN110316086A (en) * 2018-03-30 2019-10-11 比亚迪股份有限公司 Vehicle, vehicle-mounted display terminal system and its control method

Families Citing this family (39)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6010174A (en) 1997-04-14 2000-01-04 Lear Automotive Dearborn, Inc. Sliding visor
KR200225264Y1 (en) * 1997-10-01 2001-06-01 김순택 Portable display
JP4210884B2 (en) * 1999-10-18 2009-01-21 クラリオン株式会社 In-vehicle device and control method thereof
US6639569B2 (en) 2000-12-14 2003-10-28 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Integrated heads-up display and cluster projection panel assembly for motor vehicles
US6717287B2 (en) * 2001-05-22 2004-04-06 Visteon Global Technologies, Inc. Input/output device for mounting in vehicle
DE10129442A1 (en) * 2001-06-19 2003-01-02 Bosch Gmbh Robert operating device
US7097082B2 (en) * 2002-12-30 2006-08-29 Keith David Wallaker Mounting apparatus
DE502004001129D1 (en) * 2003-02-24 2006-09-21 Airbus Gmbh Furnishing module for providing information on board means of transport
JPWO2004088622A1 (en) * 2003-03-31 2006-07-06 松下電器産業株式会社 Display system
JP3830913B2 (en) * 2003-04-14 2006-10-11 パイオニア株式会社 Information display device and information display method, etc.
JP2005009892A (en) 2003-06-16 2005-01-13 Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd On-vehicle device and processing method
DE10353402A1 (en) * 2003-11-07 2005-06-09 Volkswagen Ag Information / communication system and method for presenting information and for entering data for an information / communication system of a motor vehicle
DE102004044163B3 (en) * 2004-09-13 2006-04-27 Siemens Ag Instrument panel for motor vehicle, has display for displaying information, where display is arranged before panel in view of passenger and movable along panel in horizontal direction by linear drive
KR100605064B1 (en) * 2004-11-25 2006-07-28 주식회사 남성 Car audio/video apparatus
WO2007000774A2 (en) * 2005-06-28 2007-01-04 Degapudi Janardhana Reddy Back to back lcd flat panel display
KR20080046286A (en) * 2005-09-20 2008-05-26 후지쓰 텐 가부시키가이샤 In-vehicle display apparatus
US20070069880A1 (en) * 2005-09-29 2007-03-29 Best Steven F Customizing the layout of the instrument panel of a motorized vehicle
CN101075027A (en) * 2006-05-19 2007-11-21 鸿富锦精密工业（深圳）有限公司 Double-sided display device
KR100836677B1 (en) * 2006-09-19 2008-06-10 주식회사 레인콤 Navigation System Equipped with Auxiliary Display
KR20080054250A (en) * 2006-12-12 2008-06-17 주식회사 대우아이에스 Fold monitor apparatus of car
US20100127954A1 (en) * 2008-11-26 2010-05-27 Motorola Inc Display Form Factor Devices and Methods Thereof
DE102011010229A1 (en) * 2011-02-03 2012-08-09 Audi Ag Device for operating a plurality of different functions of a motor vehicle
US9316828B2 (en) 2012-08-22 2016-04-19 Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Three-dimensional vehicle backup camera display system and method
GB2517961B (en) * 2013-09-06 2017-12-13 Jaguar Land Rover Ltd A vehicle
DE102014219236B4 (en) 2013-09-30 2024-01-11 Ford Global Technologies, Llc AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING THE SYSTEM
CN113183701A (en) 2015-05-15 2021-07-30 北极星工业有限公司 Multipurpose vehicle
KR101806892B1 (en) * 2016-05-09 2018-01-10 엘지전자 주식회사 Control device for a vehhicle
DE102016213688B4 (en) * 2016-07-26 2018-05-24 Audi Ag Motor vehicle display device with at least a first and a second display and method for operating such a motor vehicle display device
US10382806B2 (en) * 2016-11-14 2019-08-13 DISH Technologies L.L.C. Apparatus, systems and methods for controlling presentation of content using a multi-media table
US10353427B1 (en) 2017-04-30 2019-07-16 William Rabb Carrying case for a laptop computer
CN111902333B (en) 2018-01-10 2021-11-30 北极星工业有限公司 Vehicle with a steering wheel
KR102094956B1 (en) * 2018-05-21 2020-03-30 주식회사 브이터치 Display device for autonomous vehicle
US10946736B2 (en) 2018-06-05 2021-03-16 Polaris Industries Inc. All-terrain vehicle
US10562539B2 (en) 2018-07-10 2020-02-18 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Systems and methods for control of vehicle functions via driver and passenger HUDs
JP6778735B2 (en) * 2018-12-26 2020-11-04 本田技研工業株式会社 Display device, display method, and program
CN110386089A (en) * 2019-06-24 2019-10-29 惠州市德赛西威汽车电子股份有限公司 A kind of vehicle device multi-screen interactive display system
US11260803B2 (en) 2019-07-26 2022-03-01 Polaris Industries Inc. Audio system for a utility vehicle
US11639107B2 (en) * 2020-03-19 2023-05-02 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Vehicle electronic display configured to flex and/or fold for enhanced usability and viewing
CN116834553B (en) * 2023-08-29 2023-11-17 北京星网船电科技有限公司 Foldable storage display control device and vehicle with same

Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3316818A1 (en) * 1983-05-07 1984-11-08 Hans-Hellmut Dipl.-Ing. 2061 Sülfeld Ernst SUN VISOR WITH AUDIOVISUAL FACILITIES
GB2183886A (en) * 1985-12-05 1987-06-10 Reginald Paul Bottriell Microbook/bookgenerator
EP0409232A2 (en) * 1989-07-20 1991-01-23 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Car-mounted video displaying apparatus
FR2677313A1 (en) * 1991-06-07 1992-12-11 Daimler Benz Ag IMAGE RENDERING DEVICE FOR A BUS.
DE4213129A1 (en) * 1992-04-21 1993-10-28 Audi Ag In-car traffic information display and TV-video monitor - has tamper-protected switch allowing screen to be turned towards driver only when traffic information is being broadcast
DE4218179A1 (en) * 1992-06-02 1993-12-09 Wolfgang Prof Dr Matthes Video output for personal computer - has multiple display panel arranged in form of book with hinged construction and coupling to microprocessor system
DE4223354A1 (en) * 1992-07-16 1994-01-20 Georg Naujoks Computer with drive card coupled to hinged double power display - provides page data display in book form with pushbutton scrolling in forward and reverse directions
US5534888A (en) * 1994-02-03 1996-07-09 Motorola Electronic book
DE29608032U1 (en) * 1996-05-03 1996-07-18 Man Technologie Gmbh Interactive digital information and entertainment system for vehicles

Family Cites Families (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH0651451B2 (en) * 1987-03-17 1994-07-06 矢崎総業株式会社 Vehicle display
FR2636459B1 (en) * 1988-09-09 1990-10-19 Thomson Csf SYSTEM FOR RESTORING THE VISUAL ENVIRONMENT OF A SIMULATOR PILOT
US5369581A (en) * 1989-03-17 1994-11-29 Hitachi, Ltd. Vehicle control apparatus and method therefor
US5260729A (en) * 1991-09-23 1993-11-09 Hughes Aircraft Company Non-interfering color viewing system using spectral multiplexing
US5428355A (en) * 1992-03-23 1995-06-27 Hewlett-Packard Corporation Position encoder system
US5555502A (en) * 1994-05-11 1996-09-10 Geo Ventures Display and control apparatus for the electronic systems of a motor vehicle
US5871251A (en) * 1996-03-14 1999-02-16 Prince Corporation Visor display
US5873621A (en) * 1996-06-06 1999-02-23 Kuighadush; Danny H. Automotive window visor unit
US5757268A (en) * 1996-09-26 1998-05-26 United Technologies Automotive, Inc. Prioritization of vehicle display features
US5867133A (en) * 1996-12-13 1999-02-02 Ut Automotive Dearborn, Inc. Dual use display

Patent Citations (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3316818A1 (en) * 1983-05-07 1984-11-08 Hans-Hellmut Dipl.-Ing. 2061 Sülfeld Ernst SUN VISOR WITH AUDIOVISUAL FACILITIES
GB2183886A (en) * 1985-12-05 1987-06-10 Reginald Paul Bottriell Microbook/bookgenerator
EP0409232A2 (en) * 1989-07-20 1991-01-23 Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba Car-mounted video displaying apparatus
FR2677313A1 (en) * 1991-06-07 1992-12-11 Daimler Benz Ag IMAGE RENDERING DEVICE FOR A BUS.
DE4213129A1 (en) * 1992-04-21 1993-10-28 Audi Ag In-car traffic information display and TV-video monitor - has tamper-protected switch allowing screen to be turned towards driver only when traffic information is being broadcast
DE4218179A1 (en) * 1992-06-02 1993-12-09 Wolfgang Prof Dr Matthes Video output for personal computer - has multiple display panel arranged in form of book with hinged construction and coupling to microprocessor system
DE4223354A1 (en) * 1992-07-16 1994-01-20 Georg Naujoks Computer with drive card coupled to hinged double power display - provides page data display in book form with pushbutton scrolling in forward and reverse directions
US5534888A (en) * 1994-02-03 1996-07-09 Motorola Electronic book
DE29608032U1 (en) * 1996-05-03 1996-07-18 Man Technologie Gmbh Interactive digital information and entertainment system for vehicles

Cited By (23)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0999088A1 (en) * 1998-11-02 2000-05-10 Mannesmann VDO Aktiengesellschaft Display device for motor vehicle
FR2788244A1 (en) * 1999-01-12 2000-07-13 Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa SYSTEM FOR FIXING A MULTIFUNCTIONAL DISPLAY, PARTICULARLY AID FOR NAVIGATION, IN A MOTOR VEHICLE
EP1020329A1 (en) * 1999-01-12 2000-07-19 Peugeot Citroen Automobiles SA Orientable motorised support for a multifunction display in a vehicle
DE19958791B4 (en) * 1999-04-09 2007-03-22 Mitsubishi Denki K.K. Navigation system with several display devices
EP1219498A1 (en) * 2000-07-28 2002-07-03 Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha Image reproducing device
US7280166B2 (en) 2000-07-28 2007-10-09 Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha Image reproducing device
EP1219498A4 (en) * 2000-07-28 2004-12-01 Mitsubishi Electric Corp Image reproducing device
DE10214789A1 (en) * 2002-04-04 2003-10-16 Volkswagen Ag Restriction of the driver's view on display devices
EP1777097A2 (en) 2002-08-19 2007-04-25 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. A display system for displaying images within a vehicle
WO2004016460A1 (en) 2002-08-19 2004-02-26 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. A display system for displaying images within a vehicle
US7365707B2 (en) 2002-08-19 2008-04-29 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Display system for displaying images within a vehicle
US8891032B2 (en) 2003-09-27 2014-11-18 Koninklijke Philips N.V. Multi-view display
WO2005031444A2 (en) * 2003-09-27 2005-04-07 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Multi-view display
US8045069B2 (en) 2003-09-27 2011-10-25 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Method and system for providing multiple views directed to multiple viewing zones
US8300162B2 (en) 2003-09-27 2012-10-30 Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. Multi-view display
WO2005031444A3 (en) * 2003-09-27 2006-03-09 Koninkl Philips Electronics Nv Multi-view display
FR3051153A1 (en) * 2016-05-10 2017-11-17 Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa VISUALIZATION OF ANTI-DISTRACTION IMAGES IN A VEHICLE.
WO2018104067A1 (en) * 2016-12-08 2018-06-14 Audi Ag Display device for a motor vehicle
CN110072727A (en) * 2016-12-08 2019-07-30 奥迪股份公司 Display equipment for motor vehicle
US10917984B2 (en) 2016-12-08 2021-02-09 Audi Ag Foldable display apparatus for a motor vehicle
CN110072727B (en) * 2016-12-08 2022-03-18 奥迪股份公司 Display device for a motor vehicle
CN110316086A (en) * 2018-03-30 2019-10-11 比亚迪股份有限公司 Vehicle, vehicle-mounted display terminal system and its control method
CN110316086B (en) * 2018-03-30 2021-05-14 比亚迪股份有限公司 Vehicle, vehicle-mounted display terminal system and control method thereof

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
JP2001502437A (en) 2001-02-20
EP0923463A1 (en) 1999-06-23
US6067078A (en) 2000-05-23

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US6067078A (en) Dual screen display device
WO1998009842B1 (en) Dual screen display device
US6563492B1 (en) Multi-function switch unit and function indicating method of the same
US5821935A (en) Graphical user interface with electronic feature access
US5916288A (en) Multi-functional control switch arrangement
KR101052017B1 (en) Vehicle display device
EP1798588B1 (en) Operating system for functions in a motor vehicle
KR101166895B1 (en) Integrated control device for vehicle
US6494527B1 (en) Display and/or control unit for at least one electrical device in motor vehicles
US20100231547A1 (en) Reconfigurable tactile control display applications
US5873520A (en) Control unit for a vehicle heating or air-conditioning system
US5305014A (en) Operator-sensed feedback vehicle component operating control
US20150054933A1 (en) Motor vehicle with multifunctional display instrument
EP1564582A2 (en) Display system having electronically controlled viewing window
US6424337B1 (en) Multi-function control device for vehicle
JP2007505778A (en) Automotive operation system
US9751380B2 (en) Air vent assembly with integral air vent and control head
US20100327070A1 (en) Touch sensitive interface for heating or air conditioning a vehicle, and method for adjusting same
US20190344664A1 (en) Multifunction device and dashboard with such a device
US6223103B1 (en) Driver display with highlighted images
JP3668834B2 (en) Vehicle display device
KR20010043448A (en) Control device
WO1999041637A1 (en) Transparent el display
JPS62128850A (en) Automatic setting device for adjusting mechanism for car driver
JP3393725B2 (en) Control device and automobile

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AK Designated states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): CA JP

AL Designated countries for regional patents

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LU MC NL PT SE

DFPE Request for preliminary examination filed prior to expiration of 19th month from priority date (pct application filed before 20040101)
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application
WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 1997939586

Country of ref document: EP

ENP Entry into the national phase

Ref country code: JP

Ref document number: 1998 512728

Kind code of ref document: A

Format of ref document f/p: F

WWP Wipo information: published in national office

Ref document number: 1997939586

Country of ref document: EP

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: CA

WWW Wipo information: withdrawn in national office

Ref document number: 1997939586

Country of ref document: EP